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New treatments for blood cancers

Posted by

Thomas Preston

08 Apr 2010

Revolutionary new treatment for myeloma

A Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research clinical trial saw the first patient in the world receive a new form of radiotherapy for myeloma. The new treatment delivers radioactive isoptopes directly to myeloma cells in the bone marrow without damaging healthy organs – a common side effect of conventional radiotherapy.

World first gene therapy trial for leukaemia

Our researchers developed a life saving treatment which is offering new hope to patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) who cannot be cured with conventional chemotherapy. This innovative new treatment uses artificially activated anti-tumour cells, found naturally in the immune system, to destroy cancer cells. Joanne Scott, the first patient to be treated on this Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research clinical trial is still in remission.

Groundbreaking lymphoma trial avoids aggressive radiotherapy

Early results from a recent Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research clinical trial have shown that 70% of patients with Hodgkin lymphoma can have their treatment significantly reduced. This important study used PET scans, which measure response to chemotherapy, to guide treatment for each patient. Those who responded well to chemotherapy were spared radiotherapy, which has potentially damaging long term side effects.

Relieving the debilitating symptoms of myeloma bone disease

Our researchers have developed drugs that help prevent and repair bone pain caused by myeloma. This research, which is the first of its kind in the world, has had a major impact on the lives of many patients with myeloma, as before there were few treatments available.

Better treatment for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia

An important Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research clinical trial, called CLL4, confirmed the superiority of a new drug called fludarabine over conventional treatment with chlorambucil. Fludarabine is now used, along with another drug called cyclophospamide, as standard treatment for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL).

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